Zamfara Terror Attack: African Union Demands Coordinated Action After 50 Civilians Killed, Women and Children Abducted

AU Chair calls for immediate release of captives and stronger security collaboration to halt bloodshed in north-west Nigeria

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has condemned the latest deadly assault in Zamfara State, describing it as a “heinous and well-coordinated terrorist attack” that demands urgent, collective action.

More than 50 civilians were killed during the February 21 attack in north-west Nigeria, according to the African Union. Several women and children were also abducted, intensifying concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the region.

‘Grave violations of human rights’

In a statement shared via the AU’s official X account on Sunday night, Youssouf said the continental body “unequivocally rejects all acts of terrorism and violent extremism against civilian populations, particularly women and children, as grave violations of human rights and serious threats to peace, security, and stability.”

The AU stressed that deliberate attacks on vulnerable groups not only breach international human rights standards but also undermine regional peace and long-term development.

Zamfara State has for years grappled with armed banditry, kidnappings and mass casualty attacks, with communities repeatedly targeted by heavily armed groups operating in remote areas.

Solidarity with Nigeria

Youssouf expressed solidarity with the Nigerian government and people, extending condolences to families who lost loved ones and wishing the injured a swift recovery.

He reaffirmed the African Union’s continued support for Nigeria’s efforts to combat insecurity and restore stability in affected communities.

Central to the AU’s appeal was a demand for the “immediate, safe and unconditional” release of all abducted women and children. Those responsible, he said, must free the captives without harm.

Call for coordinated security response

The AU Chair emphasised that preventing further killings and abductions requires stronger collaboration between national authorities, regional actors and international partners.

He urged coordinated strategies focused on civilian protection, intelligence sharing and long-term peacebuilding to ensure such tragedies do not recur.

The statement underscores the African Union’s broader commitment to tackling terrorism and violent extremism across the continent, where several countries continue to battle insurgency and armed criminal networks.

As Zamfara mourns its dead and families await news of missing loved ones, pressure is mounting for decisive action to halt the cycle of violence.